The UK’s Greatest Gravel Biking Trails (Based on Us!)

The UK has some unbelievable gravel routes, excellent for cyclists of all expertise ranges. Whether or not you’re a seasoned professional or simply beginning your gravel biking journey, there’s a route for you.

For those who’re questioning, “The place are the perfect gravel trails close to me?”, we’ve bought you lined. We’ve pulled collectively a few of our favorite gravel bike routes throughout the UK, from rolling hills to light canal-side rambles, that will help you maximise your subsequent experience. From native routes near residence or exploring on vacation, prepare to find a few of the prime gravel routes the UK has to supply!

What’s gravel biking?

Gravel biking combines the joys of off-road exploration with the endurance of highway biking, making it the proper selection for anybody who loves a problem.

Not like common highway biking, which is confined to clean tarmac, gravel biking enables you to discover grime roads, forest tracks, and extra rugged terrains. Due to this, specialist gravel bikes are designed to supply extra stability and luxury on these surfaces, with wider tyres and a relaxed body.

Gravel biking first gained traction within the US within the early 2000s and has since change into a well-liked means for riders to expertise the outside. It’s nice if you happen to’re searching for journey, providing the liberty to find new landscapes whereas figuring out.

We beforehand ranked essentially the most stunning gravel biking trails, if you happen to’re searching for someplace as eye-catching as it’s difficult.

One of the best gravel trails within the North West

Identified for its rugged landscapes and breathtaking pure magnificence, the North West is a well-liked vacation spot for mountaineering and exploring the nice open air. From the Lake District’s dramatic hills to the peaceable rural tracks of Cheshire, this area is a haven for gravel biking.

Whether or not you’re a newbie or an skilled bicycle owner, listed below are a few of the prime gravel bike routes within the North West:

1. Lakeland 200 – Cumbria

The route’s demanding climbs and technical sections go well with skilled gravel cyclists seeking to push their limits.

2. The Guild Wheel – Preston

Distance: 21 miles (34 km)

Elevation Acquire: 381 metres (1,250 ft)

Elevation issue: Simple

Time to finish: 7-8 hours

Issue: Simple, with plenty of begin and finish factors to fit your ability degree

Appropriate for: Freshmen

The Guild Wheel affords a improbable introduction to gravel biking, making it a superb selection for inexperienced persons or those that desire a much less demanding route. Beginning in Preston city centre’s Avenham Park, this 21-mile route takes riders by a mixture of countryside, parkland, and scenic city areas, providing a nice, accessible experience for solo cyclists or getting the entire household out and about. It’s principally flat with a couple of light inclines, that means it’s an pleasurable expertise for cyclists of all capacity ranges.

The path is nicely signposted and will be ridden in both course or simply shortened/lengthened relying in your desire, making it versatile for riders of all ages. Alongside the way in which, you’ll move by stunning inexperienced areas and quiet nature reserves, providing loads of alternatives to absorb the sights. The route can be utilized as a stand-alone experience or integrated into an all-day epic, making it excellent for a brief tour or a full-on journey.

3. Starvation Hill, Delamere Forest – Cheshire

Distance: 4.2 miles (6.9 km)

Highest altitude: 159 metres (521 ft)

Time to finish: 1.5 hours

Issue: Simple

Appropriate for: Freshmen

Starvation Hill is a superb spot for inexperienced persons seeking to dip their toes into gravel biking with out committing to a prolonged or troublesome experience. Positioned within the coronary heart of Cheshire’s Delamere Forest, this 4-mile route affords a clean, straightforward experience by the forest, with light climbs and loads of stunning surroundings.

Whereas brief, Starvation Hill nonetheless affords a great mixture of terrain, with forest tracks and pure paths which can be excellent for constructing confidence on gravel. The forest additionally has its personal lodges, cafe, and amenities alongside the way in which – permitting you to stretch the route out right into a full day of using!

And, in fact, Delamere Forest can also be residence to a number of different signposted cycle routes, that means there’s one thing for everybody, whether or not you fancy a day of chilled using with mates or household or tearing up a few of the tougher trails!

One of the best gravel routes within the South East

The South East is thought for its stunning countryside and coastal landscapes. Whether or not you’re biking by rolling hills or alongside scenic seaside paths, this area affords a few of the most picturesque gravel bike routes within the UK. 

Let’s check out a few of the greatest gravel routes this area has to supply:

1. South Downs Method – Winchester

Distance: 102 miles (160 km)

Highest altitude: 270 metres (886 ft)

Time to finish: 3-4 days

Issue: Average

Appropriate for: Individuals in fine condition who commonly stroll round 10 km per day

The South Downs Method is without doubt one of the most iconic gravel bike routes within the UK, stretching throughout the beautiful South Downs Nationwide Park. Beginning in Winchester and heading east towards Eastbourne, this 100-mile path affords an ideal mix of difficult climbs and lengthy, rewarding descents. Riders are handled to sweeping views of the rolling hills, historic woodlands, and chalk cliffs that outline the realm.

The route is reasonably difficult, making it ideally suited for cyclists in good bodily form who wish to problem themselves with out venturing into extra excessive terrain. Alongside the way in which, you’ll move native villages, historic websites, and loads of alternatives to cease and take within the view. Whether or not you select to deal with it in a couple of days or unfold it out over an extended interval, the South Downs Method is without doubt one of the greatest gravel biking experiences.

2. King Alfred’s Method – Winchester

Distance: 217 miles (350 km)

Elevation Acquire: 3,531 metres (11,585 ft)

Elevation issue: Very difficult

Time to finish: 3-5 days

Issue: Intermediate

Appropriate for: Skilled cyclists

King Alfred’s Method affords one of the vital rewarding challenges within the UK. Spanning a powerful 217 miles, this path takes you thru the center of southern England, overlaying a mixture of gravel paths, nation lanes, and rugged terrain. Named after the well-known Anglo-Saxon king, the route follows a round path across the historic county of Wessex, with highlights together with the South Downs, the historic Salisbury Plain, and the attractive New Forest.

The route’s intermediate issue makes it nice for knowledgeable cyclists seeking to check their endurance. You’ll encounter a variety of various terrains, together with lengthy climbs and quick descents, with loads of alternatives to absorb the landmarks alongside the way in which. Whether or not you full it in three days or unfold it out over 5, King Alfred’s Method guarantees a difficult gravel biking journey.

One of the best gravel trails within the North East

The North East of England is thought for its rugged landscapes, huge open areas, and charming coastal paths. From the dramatic great thing about the Northumberland coast to the sweeping hills of the Pennines, the area affords a few of the greatest gravel bike routes for all ranges of riders.

Listed below are a few of our favourites:

1. North Yorkshire Moors Ramble – Yorkshire

Distance: 199 miles (320 km)

Altitude: 450 metres (1,475 ft)

Time to finish: 4-5 days

Issue: Difficult, notably climbing sections

Appropriate for: Skilled gravel cyclists

The North Yorkshire Moors Ramble affords a difficult however rewarding expertise for cyclists seeking to discover one of many UK’s most rugged landscapes. This path spans almost 200 miles, taking you thru the dramatic moorland, forests, and picturesque villages of the North Yorkshire Moors Nationwide Park. Riders will encounter steep climbs and technical sections, making it excellent for extra skilled cyclists prepared for an endurance check.

2. Monsal Path – Peak District

Distance: 8.5 miles

Elevation achieve: 595 metres (1,952 ft)

Elevation issue: Average

Time to finish: 1.5-2 hours

Issue: Simple

Appropriate for: Freshmen

The Monsal Path is without doubt one of the most accessible gravel bike routes within the UK, excellent for these simply beginning out with gravel biking or searching for a extra relaxed experience. Positioned within the coronary heart of the Peak District, this 8.5-mile route follows a former railway line, making it a clean and simple experience for inexperienced persons. Alongside the way in which, the path affords beautiful views of the Monsal Dale, residence to picturesque viaducts, tunnels, and charming villages.

The path is usually flat, with light gradients that make it comfy for cyclists of all ranges. You’ll move by various landscapes alongside the route, together with woodlands, meadows, and valleys, offering loads of alternatives to absorb the great thing about the Peak District.

One of the best gravel routes within the South West

The South West of England is famed for its coastal magnificence, rolling hills, and charming villages. From the rugged cliffs of Cornwall to the serene countryside of Devon, this area affords one thing for each rider.

Listed below are a few of the area’s most interesting:

1. Salisbury Plain – Salisbury, Wiltshire

Distance: 25 miles (40 km)

Elevation achieve: 481 metres (1,578 ft)

Elevation issue: Average

Time to finish: 2 hours

Issue: Intermediate

Appropriate for: Those that are already aware of gravel biking

Salisbury Plain affords one of the vital distinctive gravel biking experiences within the UK, with miles of open area and beautiful countryside views. Positioned close to town of Salisbury, Wiltshire, this round route winds by the huge, uncovered grasslands of the Plain, providing a mixture of off-roading experiences – from clean gravel paths to barely uneven surfaces.

The route’s diverse terrain makes it extra suited to cyclists with some earlier gravel biking expertise. It’s difficult sufficient to check your endurance, however the beautiful environment make it nicely well worth the effort.

2. The West Nation Method – Plymouth

Distance: 257 miles (414 km)

Highest altitude: 485 metres (1,590 ft)

Time to finish: 3 days

Issue: Variable

Appropriate for: Cyclists with some earlier gravel path expertise

The West Nation Method is a shocking gravel route that takes riders by the center of the South West. Stretching over 257 miles from Plymouth to Minehead, this path affords a various vary of landscapes, from coastal cliffs and rural countryside to charming seaside cities. The route’s diverse terrain means cyclists will encounter every part from clean gravel tracks to difficult off-road sections, making it an ideal selection for these with some gravel biking expertise.

Alongside the way in which, cyclists can benefit from the picturesque Dartmoor Nationwide Park, the rolling hills of Somerset, and the well-known Exmoor shoreline. Whether or not you conquer the route in a single go or cut up it up over a couple of days, this path is a good way to problem your self whereas taking within the scenic views.

3. East Devon Path – Devon

Distance: 115 miles (185 km)

Elevation achieve: 2,600 metres (8,500 ft)

Elevation issue: Difficult

Time to finish: 14 hours

Issue: Difficult

Appropriate for: Cyclists with a average health degree and expertise with gravel trails

The East Devon Path is ideal for knowledgeable cyclists searching for a problem. Spanning 115 miles, it takes you thru the picturesque landscapes of East Devon, providing a mix of demanding climbs and scenic countryside. The route is thought for its number of terrain, from large gravel paths to extra technical, off-road sections, providing you with lots to get pleasure from.

You’ll move by historic woodlands, tranquil riverside paths, and the beautiful Jurassic Shoreline. The route affords breathtaking views and a very good alternative to discover Devon’s rural magnificence.

One of the best gravel rides within the Midlands

The Midlands affords a novel mix of city biking paths and peaceable countryside routes, making it an important area for gravel biking. Whether or not you’re exploring historic market cities or biking by nature reserves, we’ve gathered a few of the greatest trails:

1. Peak Potter Overnighter – Sheffield

Distance: 61 miles (98 km)

Highest altitude: 426 metres (1,397 ft)

Time to finish: 2 days

Issue: Intermediate

Appropriate for: Cyclists with some gravel expertise

The Peak Potter Overnighter is a improbable weekend gravel experience for these seeking to discover the beautiful landscapes of the Peak District. Beginning within the metropolis of Sheffield, this 61-mile route takes you thru the rolling hills, quiet villages, and picturesque trails of the nationwide park. The route is ideal for cyclists with some gravel expertise, providing a mixture of average climbs and scenic gravel paths which can be each difficult and pleasurable.

2. Mytton 100 – Shropshire

Distance: 63.5 miles (100 km)

Elevation achieve: 1,706 metres (5,599 ft)

Elevation issue: Difficult

Time to finish: 8.5 hours

Issue: Difficult, notably on bridleways

Appropriate for: Skilled gravel cyclists

The Mytton 100 is a improbable gravel biking route by the scenic countryside of the Shropshire Hills, designed for these searching for a tougher expertise. Spanning over 60 miles, this path takes you throughout bridleways and rugged nation tracks, with some troublesome climbs and technical sections. The route is called after the notorious 18th-century fox hunter Jack Mytton and affords cyclists an actual check of endurance.

3. Lincoln Gravel Imp – Nottinghamshire

Distance: 137 miles (220 km)

Highest altitude: 115 metres (376 ft)

Time to finish: 2 days

Issue: Average

Appropriate for: Cyclists with a good degree of health, on account of inclines

The Lincoln Gravel Imp is an extended, scenic gravel path by the center of Nottinghamshire. Spanning 137 miles, this path permits cyclists to expertise the county’s various panorama, together with quiet nation lanes, historic woodlands, and picturesque villages. The route’s average issue degree makes it an ideal selection for cyclists who’ve a good health degree and are comfy with gradual inclines and longer rides.

The well-marked path affords a spread of terrains, together with clean gravel paths and difficult off-road sections. Alongside the way in which, you’ll be handled to stunning views of the Lincolnshire Wolds.

One of the best gravel biking routes in Scotland

Scotland, with its rugged highlands, dramatic coastlines, and distant landscapes, affords a few of the most breathtaking gravel biking routes within the UK. From the long-lasting Cairngorms to the quiet roads of the Scottish Borders, these trails provide one thing for each gravel bicycle owner:

1. The Peebles Loop – Peebles

Distance: 36.6 miles (60 km)

Elevation achieve: 1,030 metres (3,381 ft)

Elevation issue: Difficult

Time to finish: 2.5 to three.5 hours

Issue: Average

Appropriate for: Cyclists with a good health degree, on account of steep inclines

The Peebles Loop is a shocking gravel route set within the Scottish Borders, offering a mixture of technical climbs and clean, flowing gravel paths. This 60 km path takes you thru the attractive rolling hills and valleys round Peebles, and contains some barely steeper ascents, making it appropriate for these with a good health degree. Alongside the route, you’ll move by lush forests, quiet farm tracks, and the charming city of Peebles, the place you may cease and refuel earlier than getting again on the saddle.

2. The Cairngorms Loop – Cairngorms Nationwide Park

Distance: 182 miles (292 km)

Elevation achieve: 3,451 metres (11,324 ft)

Elevation issue: Very difficult

Time to finish: 3-4 days

Issue: Difficult

Appropriate for: Skilled gravel cyclists

The Cairngorms Loop affords an epic gravel biking expertise, taking riders by one among Scotland’s most iconic landscapes. This 182-mile loop takes you round Cairngorms Nationwide Park, recognized for its rugged magnificence and number of wildlife. The route affords a mixture of difficult climbs, rocky paths, and serene forest tracks, making it ideally suited for knowledgeable gravel cyclists seeking to deal with a multi-day journey.

3. Galloway Forest Park – Creebridge

Distance: 44 miles (70 km)

Elevation achieve: 731 metres (2,400 ft)

Elevation issue: Average

Time to finish: 2-3 days

Issue: Difficult

Appropriate for: Skilled cyclists who really feel assured on totally different terrains

Galloway Forest Park, situated within the beautiful Dumfries and Galloway area, affords a 44-mile gravel route excellent for knowledgeable cyclists searching for a rugged path. Set inside one of many UK’s largest forest parks, you’ll expertise dense woodlands, tranquil lochs, and wild landscapes that create an unforgettable biking expertise. The terrain varies from technical forest paths to extra open and uncovered sections, making it a difficult experience for these used to tackling tough gravel surfaces.

One of the best gravel cycle trails in Wales

Wales is residence to a few of the most scenic and rugged landscapes within the UK, making it a prime vacation spot for gravel cyclists.

Under, you’ll discover a few of the greatest gravel rides within the area:

1. Mawddach Path

Distance: 21.8 miles (14 km)

Elevation achieve: 464 metres (1,525 ft)

Elevation issue: Average

Time to finish: 2-3 hours

Issue: Simple

Appropriate for: Everybody

The Mawddach Path is an ideal introduction to gravel biking in Wales, providing a straightforward, scenic route ideally suited for cyclists of all talents. This 21-mile path runs alongside the attractive Mawddach Estuary, offering views of the encompassing hills and shoreline as you experience. The path is usually flat, making it a beautiful possibility for households, inexperienced persons, or anybody searching for a calming experience by the center of Snowdonia.

2. The Taff Path

Distance: 24 miles (38.48 km)

Elevation achieve: 272 metres (892 ft)

Elevation issue: Simple

Time to finish: 3 hours

Issue: Average

Appropriate for: Cyclists with some earlier gravel biking expertise

The Taff Path is without doubt one of the hottest gravel bike routes in Wales, providing cyclists a chance to discover the beautiful countryside and concrete areas between Cardiff and Brecon. Spanning 24 miles, this path follows the course of the River Taff, taking riders by varied landscapes, from scenic valleys and woodlands to quiet villages and historic cities. Whereas the route affords some average challenges, together with regular climbs and diverse terrain, it’s excellent for cyclists with earlier gravel biking expertise.

3. Black Mountain Crossing

Distance: 73 miles (117 km)

Highest altitude: 664 metres (2,180 ft)

Time to finish: 2 days

Issue: Difficult

Appropriate for: Skilled cyclists

The Black Mountain Crossing is without doubt one of the most difficult gravel biking routes in Wales, set within the beautiful Brecon Beacons Nationwide Park. Spanning throughout 73 miles, this path takes you thru a few of the most distant and rugged terrain within the area, providing demanding climbs, rocky paths, and spectacular views of the Black Mountains. 

Riders will encounter a mixture of difficult climbs and technical descents, making this route nice for knowledgeable cyclists seeking to push their limits. Alongside the way in which, you’ll move by wild moorlands, deep valleys, and historic stone ruins, with loads of alternatives to absorb the breathtaking pure great thing about the Brecon Beacons.

One of the best gravel path in Northern Eire

Northern Eire is thought for its beautiful landscapes, from rugged coastlines to rolling hills and peaceable countryside. Whether or not you’re exploring the Causeway Coast or venturing into the Mourne Mountains, let’s check out probably the greatest gravel routes this stunning area has to supply:

Lesser Noticed Eire – Belcoo

Distance: 70 miles (113 km)

Highest altitude: 340 metres (1,116 ft)

Time to finish: 3-4 days

Issue: Intermediate

Appropriate for: Cyclists with some earlier gravel bike expertise

The Lesser Noticed Eire path in Belcoo is an unbelievable gravel biking route that takes you thru a few of Northern Eire’s most picturesque and distant landscapes. This 70-mile route traverses the rugged County Fermanagh countryside, that includes a mixture of gravel paths, bridleways, and open fields. Then, you’re handled with scenic views on the stunning  Cuilcagh Lakelands International UNESCO Geopark. The terrain right here is diverse, providing punchy gravel and steep declines that make it a perfect route for cyclists with some gravel bike expertise.

Get gravel-ready with Merlin Cycles

Able to tackle these unbelievable gravel trails? Whether or not you’re new to gravel biking or an skilled rider, Merlin Cycles has every part you must get began.

Our gravel bikes are excellent for riders seeking to discover these improbable trails. Designed for stability and luxury, you’ll be capable to deal with essentially the most difficult gravel routes with ease. Plus, don’t overlook to fill up on important biking equipment, together with sturdy helmets, clothes, and even hydration packs to maintain you within the saddle.

For extra recommendation, contact our group as we speak. Or, take a look at our weblog to find extra biking information and occasions.